The Central Government has agreed to extend the Shimla Smart City mission by one year, allowing for the completion of major projects such as the assembly flyover and parking facilities.
Shimla, a city focused on becoming smarter and more technologically advanced, has received a significant boost as the Smart City Mission enters a new phase. The Smart City Management has received written confirmation of this extension, giving hope for the successful achievement of the ambitious goals set under the Smart City Mission, which now has a new deadline of June 2024.
The ongoing projects in Shimla, valued at around Rs 150 crore, are still in their early stages of construction. With the additional year granted, these projects now have an extended timeline for completion. However, it should be noted that although the one-year extension allows the projects to continue, Shimla City will not receive any additional budgetary allocations from the Center.
The Union Government has already allocated Rs 500 crore to Shimla, with two installments of Rs 98 crore still pending. Overall, the Smart City Mission aims to carry out projects worth Rs 750 crore in Shimla, with the state government contributing Rs 250 crore. As most of the budget has already been disbursed, the mission extension offers a valuable opportunity to bring all projects to fruition.
Currently, the tender process for the assembly flyover and the construction of a single-lane road is underway in Shimla, providing a chance to initiate these crucial projects. Additionally, work on the New Shimla Baragaon Road is still in its early stages, while the construction of the bus stand parking area has not yet begun. Several other projects, including parking facilities at IGMC, Auckland, and Vikas Nagar, as well as the Jakhu Escalator and Lakkar Bazar Lift, remain unfinished. The one-year extension provides much-needed time to complete these projects and fulfill the city’s aspirations.
Ajit Bhardwaj, General Manager of the Shimla Smart City Project, reassured stakeholders that dedicated efforts will be made to complete all proposed construction works by the new deadline of June 2024.
Mayor Surendra Chauhan of the Municipal Corporation welcomed the Union Government’s decision and expressed confidence in completing all smart city projects by June of the following year. He also emphasized the importance of securing additional funds from the Center to cope with the increased GST rate and rising construction material costs. The Municipal Corporation plans to submit a proposal to the government, seeking additional budgetary support to ensure the timely and successful completion of these transformative projects.
